Medano Pass (FR 559) in CO -- Free Camping & Overnight Parking in Colorado
Medano Pass (FR 559) in CO
A 10.3-mile stretch of dirt National Forest road in Huerfano County, CO. The road is open seasonally, May 1 to November 30.
Pike and San Isabel National Forests, San Carlos Ranger District allows dispersed camping here -- 14-day limit in any 30 days. Camp at least 100 ft from water.
3 of the 10.3 miles in are maintained only for high-clearance vehicles. Dirt the whole way in (10.3 miles). Climbs 2,900 ft over 10.3 miles -- sustained grades near 16%, with pitches to 23%. Stretches run along a shelf with a drop of up to ~110 ft on the downhill side. Winds through 6 switchbacks.
Mount Herard stands 4,188 ft above the site, 4.8 miles west. Exposed here -- the nearest through road is 0.0 miles off. Travellers have camped along here. The nearest town, Colorado City, is 31 mi off.
September normals 39–68°F, 1.4″ rain. Monthly averages, PRISM 1991–2020.
Set by Pike and San Isabel National Forests, San Carlos Ranger District. Stage 1 and 2 orders change within days -- check the current order before you build a fire.
fs.usda.gov